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The United Kingdom has generally always had a problem with weather
related insurance claims due to flooding, This is particularly true as
of late, causing flooding to be one of the biggest reasons for
homeowners in the UK to file claims. Predications indicate that future
weather conditions aren't likely to get any better, justifying the
reason to have adequate homeowner's insurance in the UK and to make sure
your home is protected against the cold, windy and stormy weather.
Commonly, storm damage is one of the biggest reasons for homeowners to
file a claim, so making sure your roof is in top notch condition is
important. There should not be any loose tiles or signs of
deterioration. If you own a holiday home, make sure that TV aerial
antennas and satellite dishes are intact and secure. If the home has
window shutters, make sure they are closed and safely secured.
Other problems that play a significant role is homeowner claims are
frozen burst pipes, ceilings that have collapsed under the pressure of
snow or wind and overall damages to furniture and appliances. To avoid
frozen pipes, never shut off a boiler completely when a home is not occupied.
Pipes must be lagged properly and any outside piping should be insulated
with wrapping.
Gutters and drains that are blocked can also cause damages including
dampness, which could lead to mould. Make sure the drains and gutters are
clear of debris to prevent serious water damage.
It is wise to think about personal liability as well. Make sure your
policy covers liability and keep your landscape, particularly walkways
and paths clear of leaves and other debris. Have salt available for ice
and snow, which are one of the biggest reason why someone may file a
liability claim if he or she slips whilst on your property.
It is well known that theft is a huge problem when it comes to claims
filed, especially if a home is uninhabited for a period of time. Make
sure that the proper bolts and locks are in place anywhere there is a
possible entryway for a theft to enter your home. If you own shutters,
make sure they are reinforced with metal protection. If you've just
purchased your home, change the locks.
Power failure and surges can lead to freezing, which can create burst
pipes etc. Purchasing surge protectors can be a wise step, particularly
for a home which is frequently unoccupied. If you're planning on being away from your home for an extended
period of time or if you own a holiday home, ask a neighbour to check the
power supply should a major storm occur.
Have an electrician check your home's wiring to make sure is is safe.
Many homes are destroyed by fire because of faulty wiring and fires
account for many homeowner claims. Also, make sure your home is fully
equipped with smoke alarms. Insurance companies will make note of
whether or not a home has smoke and carbon dioxide alarms. Not only
could these small devices save your life, they could also reduce your
homeowner's insurance policy premium a bit.
Purchase a homeowner's insurance policy that will protect your home from
all of the above just in case the precautions you have taken all fail.
Read the small print to make sure the cover you need is available and
shop around for a premium you can afford. Your property is likely worth
many thousands of pounds for items that are easily overlooked but which
could be covered by a blanket home contents policy. If a claim has to be made, whilst
the premium might be
off-putting, you need to make sure that your cover is as comprehensive
as possible and skimping on it could prove a very expensive 'saving'.
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